Learning to French braid your own hair is a fantastic skill that opens up a world of stylish and practical hairstyles. Whether you’re aiming for a chic everyday look, a sporty style for workouts, or an elegant updo for a special occasion, mastering the French braid is a valuable addition to your hair styling repertoire. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, making it easy for you to learn How To French Braid Your Own Hair like a pro.
French braids are not only beautiful but also incredibly functional. They are perfect for keeping your hair out of your face during workouts, managing unruly hair on busy days, and adding a touch of sophistication to your look. Plus, they are a great way to style your hair on those in-between wash days, cleverly concealing oily roots while still looking put-together.
A young woman with blonde hair showcasing neatly done French braid pigtails.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools to make the French braiding process smoother:
- Comb: A comb is essential for creating a clean part and sectioning your hair neatly.
- Hair Ties: You’ll need hair ties to secure the ends of your braids. Opt for snag-free elastics to prevent damage to your hair.
- Mirror: Having a mirror in front of you is crucial when learning to braid your own hair, especially for the back sections.
Step-by-Step Guide to French Braiding Your Own Hair
Follow these easy steps to learn how to create beautiful French braids:
Step 1: Part Your Hair
Begin by parting your hair where you desire your braid(s) to start. For classic French braid pigtails, create a clean center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck, dividing your hair into two equal sections.
Step 2: Section the Starting Hair
Choose one side to start with, and tie off the other section to keep it separate and out of your way. At the crown of your head on the chosen side, take a triangular or rectangular section of hair about one to two inches wide. This will be the starting section for your braid.
Step 3: Begin the Braid
Divide this section into three equal strands, just as you would for a regular braid.
Step 4: Start French Braiding
Begin a standard braid by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand.
Step 5: Incorporate Hair into the Braid (Adding Hair)
This is the key to a French braid. Before crossing the right strand over the middle, gather a small section of hair from the right side of your head and add it to the right strand. Now cross this combined strand over the middle. Repeat on the left side: gather a small section of hair from the left side of your head, add it to the left strand, and cross it over the middle.
Step 6: Continue Down the Head
Continue repeating Step 5, adding hair from each side into the corresponding strands before crossing them over the middle. Keep the braid close to your scalp and maintain even tension to create a neat and consistent braid.
Step 7: Finish with a Regular Braid
Once you’ve incorporated all the hair from the sides of your head, continue braiding the remaining hair in a regular three-strand braid.
Step 8: Secure the Braid
Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie.
Step 9: Repeat on the Other Side (Optional)
If you’re creating pigtail braids, repeat steps 3-8 on the other side of your parted hair.
Tips for Perfecting Your French Braid
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. French braiding takes practice. The more you do it, the easier and neater it will become.
- Use a Mirror: Especially when you are starting out, using a mirror can help you see what you are doing and ensure your braid is straight and even.
- Start Slow: Take your time, especially when you are learning. Rushing can lead to mistakes and uneven braids.
- Tension is Key: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braid. Too loose and the braid will be messy; too tight and it may be uncomfortable.
- Experiment with Hair Size: The size of the sections you add into the braid will affect the look. Smaller sections create tighter, more intricate braids, while larger sections result in looser, chunkier braids.
- Watch Tutorials: Visual aids can be incredibly helpful. Watching video tutorials can provide a clearer understanding of the hand movements and techniques involved in French braiding.
Why Choose French Braids?
French braids are a versatile and stylish choice for various occasions and hair types. Here are a few reasons why they are a great hairstyle to learn:
- Versatile Style: French braids can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for casual and formal events.
- Workout Friendly: They keep hair neatly away from your face during exercise.
- Conceals Dirty Hair: Perfect for second or third-day hair, French braids cleverly hide oily roots.
- Creates Natural Waves: After taking out French braids, you’ll be left with beautiful, natural-looking waves.
- Protective Style: Braiding can help protect your hair from damage and reduce tangling.
Learning how to French braid your own hair is a rewarding skill. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be creating beautiful braids in no time. So, grab a comb, watch a few tutorials, and start practicing your way to becoming a French braid pro!
